How do you synchronize a brake controller?
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How do you synchronize a brake controller?
So, I've read the owner's manual and understand Ford's instructions regarding the trailer brake controller setup. However, the brake manufacturer of the trailer states "...it is recommended that the controller be adjusted to allow the trailer brakes to come on just slightly ahead of the tow vehicle brakes." Ford's instructions do not mention this. Am I to assume that the controller already does this automatically? Is there any way to determine whether or not the trailer brakes actuate prior to the truck's brakes? Am I splitting hairs here?
Cheers
2014 FX4 with trailer tow package (not max tow)
Cheers
2014 FX4 with trailer tow package (not max tow)
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 26,007
Likes: 575
From: Brentwood,CA
No different than any other brake controller. You adjust your initial setting with your foot off the brake and the truck rolling at idle. Slide the actuator and watch the gain on the dash. I usually set my gain at 5.5 for a 7k trailer with dual brake axles. Mid slide on the controller locks up the trailer brakes. Gives me enough brake offset and then I let the truck do the rest.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 9,293
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From: Parker, CO
Hook up trailer, set gain. Put truck in gear and let foot off brake at idle. Get to idle speed on pavement and pull manual brakes on the controller. If brakes lock up, the gain is set too high. If brakes can't stop truck and trailer, gain is set too low.
Pretty simple.
Pretty simple.
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Thanks, I was unaware of the idle-speed procedure. At 20 mph, with the gain set to 10.0, I'm unable to lock the tires of a 4,600-pound trailer. Think anything is wrong with the controller or trailer brakes?
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 9,293
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From: Parker, CO
Realistically with the gain turned up all the way like that you would think it would lock up the brakes, but it also depends on how hard you're hitting the brakes on the truck too.
The idle speed test is good to see how well your trailer brakes are actually working. If there's an issue it's pretty much going to be the trailer in most cases.
The idle speed test is good to see how well your trailer brakes are actually working. If there's an issue it's pretty much going to be the trailer in most cases.
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More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 742
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From: S. Indiana
Dealer had no way of checking output (test equipment) at the seven way, with trailer disconnected, said they followed a Ford "procedure" and determined output from the truck was correct, but couldn't quantify the output, as displayed on the dash display when the trailer is connected. Took truck and trailer to trailer dealer. Their piece of equipment (trailer seven way plug inserted into a tester) indicated that the trailer brakes were functioning properly. Their conclusion, no (or insufficient) output from the truck. A quick google search found this: https://www.summitracing.com/parts/ipa-9107a/
I figured finding someone to actually diagnose the problem would probably set me back a benjamin for their diagnostic time, so I bought the IPA tester (cheaper from Amazon). Long story short, tester indicated truck WAS fine at the seven way (it simulates a connected trailer), problem WAS with the trailer, which I was able to diagnose, and repair.
I figured finding someone to actually diagnose the problem would probably set me back a benjamin for their diagnostic time, so I bought the IPA tester (cheaper from Amazon). Long story short, tester indicated truck WAS fine at the seven way (it simulates a connected trailer), problem WAS with the trailer, which I was able to diagnose, and repair.
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